Method and apparatus for refresh management of memory modules

Abstract

One embodiment sets forth an interface circuit configured to manage refresh command sequences that includes a system interface adapted to receive a refresh command from a memory controller, clock frequency detection circuitry configured to determine the timing for issuing staggered refresh commands to two or more memory devices coupled to the interface circuit based on the refresh command received from the memory controller, and at least two refresh command sequence outputs configured to generate the staggered refresh commands for the two or more memory devices

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 584,179, filed on Oct. 20, 2006, which is a continuation of the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 524,811, filed on Sep. 20, 2006, which is a continuation-in-part of the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 461,439, filed on Jul. 31, 2006. The current application also claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 823,229, filed on Aug. 22, 2006. The subject matter the above related applications is hereby incorporated herein by reference. However, insofar as any definitions, information used for claim interpretation, etc. from the above parent application conflict with that set forth herein, such definitions, information, etc. in the present application should apply.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to memory modules and, more specificall...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a circuit that manages refresh command sequences for memory devices. It receives a refresh command from a memory controller and detects the clock frequency. Based on this information, it generates staggered refresh commands for two or more memory devices. The technical effect is that this circuit ensures efficient refreshing of memory devices.

Problems solved by technology

However, one issue associated with the action of refreshing more DRAM devices for each refresh operation in the higher capacity DRAM devices is that larger electrical currents may be drawn by the higher capacity DRAM devices for each refresh operation.

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